If you’re considering moving to the Eastside and looking for a neighborhood that perfectly blends peaceful suburban charm with convenience, North Redmond might just check all your boxes. Tucked north of NE 116th Street and bordered by Avondale Road, North Redmond offers a little bit of everything—quiet residential streets, top-rated schools, lovely parks, and easy access to everything Redmond and the greater Seattle area have to offer. Here’s what it’s really like to live in the North Redmond neighborhood from a local’s perspective.
Community Vibe: Welcoming, Peaceful, and Connected
Ask any North Redmond resident what they like best, and chances are you’ll hear about the friendly neighbors and the peaceful atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where families walk their dogs after dinner, kids ride bikes on quiet cul-de-sacs, and folks wave hello as you pass by. Community events—like block parties in the summer or Halloween parades on 172nd Avenue NE—foster a warm, inclusive spirit.
Neighbors tend to look out for each other here. While North Redmond isn’t packed with coffee shops or restaurants right in its core, gatherings often happen in local driveways or at nearby parks. Many residents mention the Facebook Groups or Nextdoor pages as ways to connect, swap recommendations, or plan playdates.
Types of Housing: Spacious Homes, New Builds, and Room to Grow
North Redmond is known for its newer construction. Over the last decade, several developments have brought stylish craftsman and modern homes to the area, especially north of NE 122nd Street. You’ll find:
- Larger single-family homes—most with three to five bedrooms and generous yards
- Contemporary townhomes in selected pockets, though less common than elsewhere in Redmond
- Gated communities and homeowner associations (notably in areas just east of Redmond-Woodinville Road NE)
- Estate-sized lots and custom homes tucked along NE 124th Street and NE 128th Street
The neighborhood appeals to those seeking space: open floor plans, big backyards, and safe, low-traffic streets are the norm here—ideal for families or anyone craving privacy.
Walkability: Mostly Residential, But Parks and Trails Shine
North Redmond is primarily residential, which means you won’t find a big commercial district within the neighborhood limits. What you will find are well-maintained sidewalks, cul-de-sacs perfect for playing, and access to some beautiful walking and biking trails.
- The Redmond Watershed Preserve borders the north and is a true gem for runners, mountain bikers, or casual walkers alike.
- The Powerline Trail offers a paved path that cuts through the neighborhood, connecting to East Redmond and Bear Creek.
- The Sammamish River Trail isn’t far, especially for residents closer to Avondale Road.
Most errands will require a car, but for daily recreation and evening strolls, the area is exceptionally safe and inviting for pedestrians.
Schools and Family-Friendliness: A Major Draw
Families move to North Redmond for the schools—and with good reason. The neighborhood is served by the highly regarded Lake Washington School District. Key schools include:
- Ella Baker Elementary: Opened in 2018 on 130th Ave NE, this modern school is practically a community hub. The school’s innovative curriculum and community involvement are consistently praised by parents.
- Timberline Middle School and Redmond High School: Both boast strong academics and a range of extracurriculars.
With top-tier schools, larger yards, and quiet streets, North Redmond is a suburban haven for families with children of all ages. Neighbors report a sense of “village life”—kids knowing each other, parents chatting at bus stops, and community safety always top of mind.
Parks and Green Spaces: Abundant and Well-Maintained
Nature is one of North Redmond’s standout features. Besides the sprawling Redmond Watershed Preserve—which has several trails and wildlife viewing spots—residents enjoy:
- Perrigo Park: Just off 196th Ave NE, this park has sports fields, a playground, picnic areas, and even a dog park. On sunny weekends, you’ll see soccer games, birthday parties, and families barbecuing here.
- Arthur Johnson Park: Tucked off NE 124th Street, a low-key spot for a quick walk or a peaceful break.
- Local playgrounds and greenbelts interspersed among the developments
Green spaces aren’t just an amenity—they’re part of what gives North Redmond its open, breezy feeling.
Safety: A Standout Feature
One thing residents consistently appreciate about North Redmond is its overall sense of safety. The area has low crime rates, with most issues limited to the occasional package theft or traffic complaint. Streets like 166th Ave NE and NE 128th St enjoy little through-traffic, making them especially safe for children and evening walks. Community groups and the Redmond Police maintain a close relationship, boosting neighborhood vigilance and peace of mind.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers: Close to Everything
North Redmond strikes a prime balance: it feels tucked away, yet is only a short drive to everywhere you need to be.
- Redmond Town Center is just 10 to 15 minutes away, as is downtown with its restaurants, shops, and the library.
- Microsoft’s main campus and other tech employers in Overlake are about 15 minutes by car—great for commuters.
- Quick access to SR 202 and Redmond-Woodinville Road NE means you can reach Woodinville’s wineries, or head south toward Sammamish and Bellevue with ease.
Most residents drive, but local King County Metro buses serve nearby arterial roads for those who prefer public transportation.
What Residents Love Most
Ask people why they stay in North Redmond, and a few themes stand out:
- “It's just quiet—you can actually hear birds and see trees outside your window.”
- “We wanted a great school district and a neighborhood where our kids could really play outside. North Redmond is perfect for that.”
- “Perrigo Park is a lifesaver. We’re there every weekend with friends.”
- “The community just feels caring, like people genuinely take pride in where they live.”
For those weighing their options on the Eastside, North Redmond offers the peace, space, and safety of the suburbs—without giving up access to some of the best features of Redmond and the greater Seattle area.
If you’re searching for a neighborhood with family appeal, great schools, friendly neighbors, and access to both nature and city amenities, North Redmond deserves a spot at the top of your list.